Cerberus (ser ber us) [L., from Gr. Kerberos], n. A three headed dog, fabled to guard the entrance of Hades. Cerbera (ser ber ur) [E., from Blackpool], a viscious growling 2+2 coupe from TVR

Currently the most expensive model in TVR's range, at around £50,000, the Cerbera is the most potent car that TVR make. Three different engines are offered, all TVR's own design

• 4.2 V8
• 4.5 V8
• 4.0 Straight Six (the 'Speed Six')

Given the incredible performance of the car with any of the engines, the relative merits might seem academic. The AJP8 4.2 litre outputs a healthy 360bhp, more than enough for most drivers. Should you feel you need that little bit more, then the 4.5 will churn out a whopping 420bhp! Larger wheels and brakes distinguish the models.

At the Factory
Pictures courtesy of Charles Fellowes

It may seem odd to offer the Speed Six engine in the range given that the characteristics look pretty similar to the V8. It's got almost the same power output as the 4.2 V8 and slightly more torque. Probably run as a test bed for the upcoming Tuscan Speed Six, the Cerbera Speed Six Cerbera has now been packaged subtly differently to the V8 models. It seems that the Speed Six model is intended as more of a Grand Tourer than an out and out racer. The most obvious signs of this are the lower geared steering, higher profile tyres and more supple suspension which lead to a smoother ride than the raw, firm V8's.

Given the small output of TVR, it's a testament to their enthusiasm and dedication that such a low volume car can be produced with 3 engine options, each offering a slightly different and yet so exhilarating experience.

Third Time Lucky

So where did the Cerbera appear from? It was in fact the third attempt by TVR to produce a 2+2, a family man's TVR. The Tasmin +2 was produced early in the 1980's but never sold in great numbers. Later in the 80's Peter Wheeler toyed with the concept of a 420 Wedge saloon. Despite running a prototype for some time, and showing it at the 1986 Motor Show, he was never satisfied with the design and it never made it into production.

Then in 1993 the Cerbera was unveiled at the London Motor Show. It was the result of experimentation with a lengthened Chimaera chassis. The car is a true 2+2, with typically small seats as is often the case with this genre of car. However, it can be done - adults can sit in the back! The first cars were finally delivered in 1996 and the car has proved a great success for TVR. It's beautiful styling and incredible performance once again represent an incredible value for money package, with almost no cars this side of £100,000 able to rival its' performance.